I'm a Creative Director in NYC—These Are the 3 Bag Trends You'll See Everywhere in 2026
As 2025 comes to a close, we’re collectively thinking about what’s next on the horizon across all areas of the fashion landscape—from jewelry to coats to handbags. For further insight into the latter we tapped Joyce Lee, Creative Director of Parker Thatch, to guide us on the handbag trends to know for 2026.
Not only is Lee an expert in the bag industry, she's also based in NYC so she has unique insight into what fashion girls are gravitating towards in the city. "In New York, it has to be a big tote that can hold everything and move with you from morning to night," she shared. "I always carry a smaller bag inside—something you can transfer easily between bags and that doubles as an evening bag or clutch when plans change unexpectedly." Genius.
While Lee's personal favorite bag silhouettes are slouchy, effortless styles, she shared the 3 specific trends she believes we'll see everywhere in 2026. Keep scrolling to see her bag trend predictions, plus shopping recommendations for each if you're in the market.
SATCHELS
"Satchels are having a moment again. That hand-held, classic shape taps beautifully into this modern prep mood: timeless, slightly collegiate, and quietly cool."
Reformation
Oversized Patrizia Bag
ZARA
Split Suede Leather Shoulder Bag
DeMellier
New York Leather Satchel
THE ROW
Marlo 12 Leather Tote
Veronica Beard
Suede Dash Bag
Tory Burch
Lee Radziwill Petite Double Satchel Bag
FLAP BAGS + CROSSBODY STYLES
"Flap bags and crossbodies are becoming essentials. They feel relaxed, hands-free, and functional, but there’s also a new modern prep polish to them—clean lines, practical structure, and an ease that still feels intentional."
Coach
Bleecker Crossbody Bag 21
Bembien
Mini Madeleine Bag
Parker Thatch
Belted Jane
Reformation
Elena Shoulder Bag
MANGO
City Shoulder Bag With Flap
Madewell
The Belted Suede Satchel Bag
LIVED-IN STYLES
"And then we’re seeing a real love for bags with a lived-in vibe—broken-in leather, vintage touches, soft slouchy shapes. They feel effortless, personal, and timeless, the perfect balance to anything more structured in your wardrobe."
8 Other Reasons
Jordan Hobo Bag
Madewell
Mylie Large Suede Shoulder Bag
Coach
Suede Brooklyn Shoulder Bag
Bottega Veneta
Large Hop Bag
Madewell
Suede Large Slouchy Shoulder Tote
